Are you looking for tips to help you succeed in learning French as a second language? If so, you’ve come to the right place! Learning any new language can be difficult, but you can become proficient in French with the right tools and dedication. Here are five tips that will help you succeed in learning French as a second language.

Once you are confident in your French, Achēv’s language assessment services can help you determine your level of expertise. If you are a French speaker, or speak another language, and are new to English, you can also have your english or french assessed at one of many locations throughout Ontario. Our LINC home study program also provides remote french and english language training, learn from professional accreddited instructor from the comfort of your own home. LINC offers services in Ontario, and throughout Canada.

Achēv offers a variety of other language services, so be sure to take a look and see if we can help you on your language Journey.

1. Get yourself an excellent French dictionary.

An excellent French dictionary is vital to the successful learning of the French language. With a French dictionary, you can look up words and phrases you need help understanding or are unsure of and correctly conjugate verbs. Your French dictionary should include pronunciation, accent marks, and usage notes for all words formed. Here are some tips for how to use your French dictionary to learn the language:

1. Use it to look up unfamiliar words and phrases. If you encounter a word or phrase you don’t understand, look it up in the dictionary. This resource will help you get familiar with common words and phrases you can use in conversations.
2. Look up verb conjugations. Verb conjugations can be tricky, and the best way to get them right is to look them up in the dictionary. You can easily find the correct verb conjugation using the dictionary’s search function. 
3. Read the usage notes. Usage notes provide context for a word or phrase and explain the conjugations used in what situation. This information can help you get a better understanding of the language. 
4. Pay attention to pronunciation and accent marks. Knowing how to pronounce words correctly is essential to speaking any language. A good dictionary will include pronunciation and accent marks to help you get it right. 
5. Use it to expand your vocabulary. Once you’ve learned the basics, you can start exploring different words and phrases in the dictionary. This exploration will help you develop your language and become more fluent in French. 

Regularly using a French dictionary can make you quickly more comfortable with the language and better understand how it works. A good dictionary is essential for learning any language, so ensure you have one when studying French.

2. Find a tutor or take a class.

One of the best ways to learn a language is by finding a tutor or taking a class. Having a personal teacher or instructor available to answer your questions and provide feedback on your progress can be invaluable. Plenty of resources online, both free and paid, can help you find a tutor or take a class. Depending on the type of learner you are, there are both in-person classes and online classes available for those learning French as a second language.

Local colleges and universities will often provide classes, private language schools, or even private homes with tutors who specialize in teaching French. Taking an in-person class offers the opportunity to practice speaking French with native speakers and get immediate instructor feedback.

Online classes are becoming more popular as technology advances. Many websites offer courses in French as a second language, some of which are free. An online option allows you to work independently and access course material whenever convenient.

You can research the instructor’s qualifications before enrolling in a course or finding a tutor. A good instructor should know French grammar and syntax, as well as be able to provide helpful feedback on your progress.

3. Listen to French music and watch French movies

Listening to French music and watching French movies can be a great way to help you learn the language. Music can help you memorize and recall words, phrases, and sounds, while watching movies can help with pronunciation. As you listen and watch, try to pick up the terms and phrases used and take note of them. It’s also important to consider the context in which the words come across. 

You can find French music and movies through streaming services or on YouTube. A great way to start is to look for songs from your favorite artists in French and then move on to film from France or Quebec. Watching movies is a great way to familiarize yourself with the culture and learn slang words and phrases that might be outside of textbooks. 

The more you listen and watch, the more you will become accustomed to and understand the language more quickly. It’s a fun and easy way to learn French as a second language!

4. Practice, practice, practice

Learning a new language takes time and practice to become fluent, and French is no exception. When looking at improving your understanding and pronunciation of French words and phrases, it’s important to practice regularly. Try writing or speaking in French every day to maintain your language skills. Please make an effort to use the language as often as possible so you become more comfortable with it.

If you’re studying French independently, finding online resources or language apps that offer quizzes and other activities to help you practice can be helpful. These apps can be a great way to test yourself and reinforce what you’ve learned. If you’re taking a class, take advantage of any extra practice sessions your instructor offers.

When it comes to speaking French, it is okay to make mistakes. You’ll gradually become more confident as long as you continue to practice. In addition, there are plenty of native French speakers who are willing to help you if you want feedback on your progress. Seek out these people and take advantage of the opportunities to improve your language skills.

5. Don’t give up!

Learning a language can be difficult, but don’t give up! You must devote time and energy to become proficient in French, but you can make it happen with the right attitude and effort. It is essential to keep going even if you make mistakes and get discouraged – this is all part of the learning process. With perseverance, you will feel more confident in your abilities and progress quickly. Take some time off if needed and return to your studies refreshed and motivated. Regular review of what you have already learned is also crucial for retention. Finally, remember to have fun and be creative with your learning – read French books, watch French movies, cook French food, and practice speaking with native speakers whenever possible! Don’t give up; you’ll eventually reap the rewards of becoming fluent in French.

And don’t forget to take a look at Achēv language services to see how we may be able to help!